Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Commissioner Robert Klee will recognize several Environmental Conservation (EnCon) Police Officers and others for their exemplary work in protecting Connecticut’s citizens and the environment.

“Those we are honoring are part of an outstanding law enforcement tradition that dates back more than a century,” said DEEP Commissioner Robert Klee. “Our EnCon officers play a unique role by performing traditional law enforcement duties as well as enforcement of the state’s fish and wildlife laws, investigation of boating accidents, handling of exotic species, and conducting search and rescue operations.”

At the DEEP’s annual EnCon recognition ceremony, to be held this year at Harkness Memorial State Park, in Waterford Commissioner Klee will join EnCon Police Colonel Kyle Overturf in presenting awards in seven categories:

Known as “Special Game Protectors” when first created in 1895, the State Environmental Conservation Police are responsible for protecting the public and Connecticut’s natural resources through public education and outreach, prevention of crime and accidents and the enforcement of laws and regulations. EnCon officers work in three law enforcement districts - East, West and Marine - and nine areas of expertise: Fish and Game, Boating, Commercial Fishing, Wildlife Management, Parks and Forests, Recreational Vehicles, Search and Rescue, Homeland Security, and Public Outreach.
All EnCon officers are fully certified law enforcement officials with full arrest powers. In addition to traditional law enforcement duties, they have special responsibilities for protecting Connecticut’s natural resources and wildlife.
The EnCon police are a part of the DEEP’s Bureau of Outdoor Recreation and are under the command of Colonel Kyle Overturf.